Public relations and communication in large-scale projects - public participation and active stakeholder-management as a fixed project component

The expectations of the public have changed over the past years: the formal participation of citizens affected by infrastructural measures does not go far enough. Affected parties and users do not only wish to be informed early and comprehensively, but also to be involved in the planning procedure themselves. This requirement, which has a positive impact on the respective project, has to be integrated into the process. Technical planners, project managers and communication consultants have to work well together. A project design that provides for close integration of dialogue and project management over the entire project duration is worthwhile. The advantages of the changed approach are far more than just increasing public acceptance of infrastructure projects. Potential conflicts which could lead to protests become visible at an early stage of the planning procedure where changes can still be made. Delays in the procedure can be reduced, which also contributes to profitability. But how can stakeholders be integrated into the planning procedure in a profitable way? What is the most promising approach for the respective project? Is the extensive information of stakeholders enough, does a continuous dialogue make sense or are formats of participation the most promising? The VDI 7000 and VDI 7001 guidelines provide a good orientation.